Public schools, community colleges, and the University of North Carolina system each have their own governance boards. But these boards differ substantially in design and operation.

and

Now, I know enough North Carolina history to recognize that these oddities are not accidental. The legislature have long relished its control of the UNC system – this was even a big political issue in the 1870s, believe it or not – while governors have sparred with state superintendents and lawmakers over who should be responsible for forming and carrying out public-school policies.

But here we are, well into the 21st century, with a set of governance policies for North Carolina education that serve mostly to confuse the public and confound effective management. Let’s do something about it.